What Is the Technique to Pull a String on a Compound Bow?

Compound bows are an effective alternative to using firearms when hunting. They present more of a challenge when aiming and firing, posses considerable force when shot correctly and are almost silent compared to firing a gun. While compound bows function identically to traditional bows, a system of levers help store more energy and give a mechanical advantage over regular bows. Knowing how to pull a compound bow can give the upper hand when hunting wild game.

  1. Correct Stance

    • When drawing back a bow string, your personal stance can affect how well you will hit your target. Your stance will differ depending on whether or not you are right or left-handed, your personal preference and physical comfort level. Depending on what you feel is more effective, you may prefer a square stance, where both feet are perpendicular or you may like an open stance, where one foot is placed ahead of the other. Be sure to find a stance that does not cause your body to twist while firing.

    Find an Anchor

    • An anchor point, when firing a compound bow, is a preferred point to which you draw your string before each shot. A common anchor point to start with is the tip of your nose, to use as a reference to position each shot. An anchor point above the jaw is called a high anchor. An anchor point below the jaw is considered a low anchor. Adjust the anchor point when aiming to optimize each pull.

    Use Your Back

    • When drawing the string to your anchor point, be sure to utilize your back muscles instead of placing all the tension in your arms. Let your shoulder fall into a natural position and do not rotate it upwards. Check with a coach or more experienced archer that your vertical alignment is correct and that the line from your elbow to the tip of the arrow is straight. Be sure to maintain correct posture when aiming by squeezing your shoulder blades together.

    Strong Back Wall

    • At full draw, it is important that a bow has a comfortable back wall. The back wall is the point in which the bow cannot pull back any farther. Some compound bows will have very hard back walls while others have very soft back walls. A firmer back wall can give you a better idea as to how far you need to draw your bowstring for maximum range. This will allow you to gauge how much more or less you will need to pull the string to hit your target.